Mexican traditional attire is always eye-catching. Although, the folk costumes of different regions of Mexico differ from each other – some just a little, others dramatically. Let’s take two absolutely different folk dresses from the neighboring regions of Chiapas and Veracruz (both in South Mexico) and compare them. Sure, there are some common features, but these outfits look so unlike that it’s even hard to believe that they’re from the same country. Black and white, vibrant and delicate, colorful embroidery and snow-white lace.
Mexican dress from Chiapas region
The traditional Chiapas dress is very colorful, adorned with floral embroidery. The gown has a circular off-the-shoulder neckline and a flounce, richly embellished with floral embroidery. The skirt is long and wide, composed of several layers of flounces, which are densely embroidered with flowers as well. All the embroidery is usually handmade by the local artisans. In the past, women used to decorate their dresses by themselves, but today, they can just buy these stunning garments.
This colorful Chiapas dress appeared in the early 20th century. At first, it was simpler, with fewer embroidery and flounces but, with time, it got fancier and more eye-catching.
Of course, this is festive attire. It is usually worn in Mexico for various special occasions (weddings, celebrations, ceremonies, folklore festivals, etc.) and by the folk dancers from the State of Chiapas. In day-to-day life, Mexican women sometimes wear simper variants of the Chiapas dress, less flamboyant. But still, they prefer to use ordinary Western-style clothing instead of traditional apparel.
Mexican dress from Veracruz region
The folk attire of this Mexican region is very different from all the other areas. It is always white and complemented with a small black apron. Usually, one more piece is added – a white square shawl thrown over both shoulders and fastened at the front.
The white gown looks delicate. It is traditionally embellished with beautiful white lace. And the black apron is decorated with some lace, too (black in this case), and with colorful embroidered flowers (often, these flowers are red, but they can also be multicolored).
The ensemble is usually complemented with some fresh or artificial flowers in the woman’s hair.
The costumes of these two Mexican regions are so different but, at the same time, they have a lot in common. The same long and very wide skirt, the same flounces, very similar cut and design, etc. Each of the dresses is gorgeous in its own way.
